More from The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Theoden: I have left instruction. The people are to follow your rule in my stead. Take up my seat in the Golden Hall. Long may you defend Edoras if the battle goes ill.
Eowyn: What other duty would you have me do, my lord?
Theoden: Duty? No, I would have you smile again, not grieve for those whose time has come. You shall live to see these days renewed. No more despair.

Gamling: He leaves because there is no hope.
Theoden: He leaves because he must.
Gamling: Too few have come. We cannot defeat the armies of Mordor.
Theoden: No we cannot. But we will meet them in battle nonetheless.